Content Strategy: key Frameworks for Creators
By Alberto Luengo·05/22/25
creators
enterprises
Turn your content hustle into a strategic engine—with simple, actionable frameworks.
You’ve felt it: posting on the fly may get you by, but without a clear plan, you burn out chasing trends or wonder why some posts flop. A little strategic muscle lets you invest time where it pays off, spot new opportunities, and stand out—not just scramble for likes.
1. The Cash-Cow Content Matrix
(Inspired by the BCG growth–share model)
Divide your content into four quadrants based on performance (engagement, reach) and potential (growth opportunity):
| Quadrant | Definition | Creator Example | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stars | High performance, high growth potential | A popular tutorial on your niche topic | Double down—make series, deep dives, paid workshop |
| Cash Cows | High performance, low growth potential | Evergreen “how-to” that consistently works | Milk it—repurpose monthly, schedule on autopilot |
| Question Marks | Low performance, high growth potential | New format (e.g. short-form skits) | Experiment—test variations, tweak timing, promote |
| Dogs | Low performance, low potential | Random off-topic memes | Retire or rethink—don’t waste your scarce time |
Why it works:
- You focus on Stars and Cash Cows for maximum ROI.
- You experiment with Question Marks but don’t over-invest.
- You trim Dogs to avoid distraction.
2. SWOT Your Content
(Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)
Use a quick SWOT to audit where you stand:
| SWOT | Creator Prompt |
|---|---|
| Strengths | What formats or topics do you nail? (e.g., storytelling, editing) |
| Weaknesses | Which posts underperform? Where do you stall? |
| Opportunities | What gaps exist in your niche? Untapped platforms? |
| Threats | What crowded trends or algorithm changes threaten you? |
How to run it:
- Grab your last 20 posts—note top 5 and bottom 5.
- In a shared doc, list strengths and weaknesses around those extremes.
- Scan competitor feeds and keyword trends (AnswerThePublic, Exploding Topics) for Opportunities.
- Read platform blogs (Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn) to spot algorithm Threats.
Why it works:
- You build on real strengths.
- You stop repeating mistakes.
- You jump on emerging trends.
- You guard against pipeline disruptions.
3. Performance vs. Differentiation
(Winning the algorithm vs. owning your niche)
- Performance-Based Content
- Definition: Formats and topics proven to get high reach (e.g., TikTok challenges, trending hashtags).
- Benefit: Quick visibility and follower growth.
- Risk: Blends into noise if you just chase every trend.
- Differentiation Content
- Definition: Unique angles, deep expertise, personal stories that no one else can replicate.
- Benefit: Builds loyal fans and authority.
- Risk: Slower to gain traction if audience size is small.
Balanced Mix:
| Week’s Posts | Example Mix |
|---|---|
| 70% Performance-Based | Trend challenge, trending audio Reel, AMA Story |
| 30% Differentiation | Deep-dive carousel, personal journey vlog, niche tutorial |
Why it works:
- You stay on the algorithm’s good side with high-engagement formats.
- You win hearts with your one-of-a-kind voice and knowledge.
Bringing It All Together: A 4-Step Mini Audit
- Map Your Matrix: Slot last month’s posts into your Cash-Cow quadrants—spot underused Stars or overdue Dogs.
- Run a Quick SWOT: Update your doc with new strengths (e.g., your AI editing speed) and threats (e.g., algorithm favoring short video).
- Plan Your Mix: Aim for a 70/30 split performance/differentiation; plan at least one Star, one Cash Cow, and one Question Mark each week.
- Schedule & Execute: Block your sprint, use AI ideation if needed, load your scheduler, and let your Evergreen Vault fill the gaps.
Ready to Level Up?
For a deeper dive on using strategic content planners, grab our free Notion template in the Content Planner Template Guide.
Tagged: creators
Type: article
2/2
o4-mini-high
addd about evergreen content, etc